• We’re currently investigating an issue related to the forum theme and styling that is impacting page layout and visual formatting. The problem has been identified, and we are actively working on a resolution. There is no impact to user data or functionality, this is strictly a front-end display issue. We’ll post an update once the fix has been deployed. Thanks for your patience while we get this sorted.

Cheap Bookshelves +T Amp vs Powered Studio Monitors vs Computer Speakers

T

the DRIZZLE

Platinum Member
I have seen a lot of discussion of using a cheap t amp with bookshelves for computer speaks, and about powered monitors, but never a comparison of the two. I was thinking of using a pair of Infinity P152s and a cheap T as computer speakers. How would this compare with some of the popular powered speaker options that are recomended?
 
I have a pair of AV123 X-LS classics powered by a t-amp and a pair of Swan M200 MKII.

They're both good. I haven't had both in the same place to do any real testing though. I'd have a hard time picking which one I like better based on what I know now.

I guess with powered monitors, you're getting a set that's geared toward near field listening, and something that has amplifier capabilities matched to the speaker.

With bookshelf speakers, you have more options for expanding the system later on (by getting an amp with subwoofer output, hooking up the passive speakers to a receiver, etc.)
You'll have more options since you can basically do any combo you want.

Either way you want to do it will work.

I mainly did the T-amp and bookshelf combo for my office system since Kaido gave me the t-amp as a gift.
I bought a pair of b-stock speakers to go with them, and a power supply to power the t-amp since it wasn't included with the amp at the time.
All together I think the system was probably $250 worth of stuff.

The M200 MKIIs I bought for my sister, but she moved to England for a year (as of 2 days ago) and gave the Swans back to me. I've been using them at home while I get my main system sorted out (as I described in the massive DIY room treatments thread I started tonight).

I'm happy with the results of both systems.
 
I've had that exact combo (P150 + t-amp) and it was fine. Although, I would just find a cheap stereo amp or receiver and go with that instead. While the t-amp does sound good, for the same money you could get a more capable amp/receiver. And the plus of going with the Infinitys is that in the future they could be surrounds for you in a 5.1 setup.
 
Originally posted by: Excelsior
I've had that exact combo (P150 + t-amp) and it was fine. Although, I would just find a cheap stereo amp or receiver and go with that instead. While the t-amp does sound good, for the same money you could get a more capable amp/receiver. And the plus of going with the Infinitys is that in the future they could be surrounds for you in a 5.1 setup.
Click to expand...

Well space is a constraint so I don't want to take up too much space with a full reciever. I already have a home theatre in another room so I don't think I woild ever feel the need to go to 5.1 for computer speakers. However, I might want to add a small sub to the computer system eventually so the flexibility of a seperate speakers and amp would allow that.
 
i suggest to go for the actives. If you are going to build a T-amp rig it's better to go with more efficient speakers, but unfortunately they will usually be larger. On the other hand, one can go with the infinity bookshelves and a more expensive and powerful amp. But I am unsure which poweramp in the lower price range will match the sound quality of the t-amp, I know the harman kardon 2 channel receiver i use for bedroom TV couldn't, and neither can the Denon in the living room. (They both sound rather dull compare to the T-amp, I think live is what the T does best)

so in effect go with the active and u will be less compromised.
 
I have P162's paired with an old reciever that we weren't using. Using Digital Coax out from Audigy2 to the reciever.

I also have a subwoofer which is a total neccessity for the music I listen to (Drum and Bass).
 
You must log in or register to reply here.

TRENDING THREADS

Back
Top